Union signs green jobs deal

Geothermal energy is one of several renewable energy sources that companies are looking at when determining how to efficiently provide power to their buildings. International Union of Operating Engineers Local 150 and Indie Energy Systems Company have signed a deal that will provide labor for the construction of geothermal building systems in the Chicago area.

This deal is just one of many that are being planned around the United States and the world to create more green jobs.

Indie Energy CEO Daniel Cheifetz says, "Local 150 of the International Union of Operating Engineers is one of the preeminent unions in the United States. We look forward to working with them to develop a green collar workforce that earns a real living wage while revitalizing neighborhoods and helping everyone achieve independence from expensive and dirty energy." Source: PR Newswire

Based in Evanston, Illinois, Indie Energy's mission is to help American cities meet the 2030 Challenge using geothermal building systems. The goal of the 2030 Challenge is that all new buildings be carbon neutral by the year 2030.

For buildings that are looking at LEED certification, Indie Energy points out that a geothermal system can provide the building with anywhere from 12 to 20 LEED points. To obtain LEED certification, a building only needs 26 points; a geothermal system goes a long way towards meeting the certification requirements.

As more companies turn towards renewable energy systems, like those offered by Indie Energy, more tradesmen experienced with green technology would be needed. Local 150 is laying the groundwork for others to help prepare them for the green jobs of the future - and today.